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Pasta dishes have long held a special place in culinary traditions around the world, beloved for their versatility, comfort, and ability to bring people together around the dinner table. Among the myriad of pasta recipes, Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta stands out as a delightful blend of rich flavors and creamy textures that captivate the senses. This dish strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Classic Tomato Basil Pasta with Cream

Discover the comforting delight of Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, a perfect dish for any occasion! This recipe blends rich flavors with creamy textures, showcasing fresh ingredients like quality pasta, olive oil, garlic, and vibrant basil. Easy to prepare, it transforms simple components into a gourmet meal. Ideal for both busy weeknights and special gatherings, this pasta dish invites you to get creative with flavors while enjoying a delicious dining experience.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340 g) of your choice of pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine are excellent options)

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for balancing acidity)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus additional for serving)

Red pepper flakes (optional, for those who like it spicy)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook per the package instructions until it reaches al dente consistency. Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water for later use, then drain the remaining water and set the pasta aside in a colander.

      Sauté the Garlic:

        In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté for approximately 1 minute, stirring continuously until the garlic is fragrant and golden, but take care not to let it burn.

          Add the Tomatoes:

            Carefully pour in the crushed tomatoes. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. If you enjoy a mellower sauce, you can add the optional sugar during this step. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to meld the flavors.

              Incorporate the Cream:

                Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir the mixture thoroughly until it transforms into a luscious, creamy red sauce. Continue to simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

                  Mix in Basil and Pasta:

                    Fold the chopped basil leaves into the sauce and stir well to combine. Next, add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to ensure each strand is fully coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually incorporate some of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired creaminess.

                      Finish with Cheese:

                        Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the pasta and stir until it melts seamlessly into the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding extra salt or pepper as needed. For those who enjoy a touch of heat, feel free to add some red pepper flakes at this stage.

                          Serve:

                            Dish out the creamy tomato basil pasta onto plates and garnish with additional basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve warm and savor every bite!

                              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4